Program Note for Canti d'Innocenza (1985)
for soprano, clarinet, harp and vibraphone
I found the intermingling of innocence and sensuality
in these subtle, delicate poems an irresistible invitation to a musical
setting. Like the poetry, the music achieves its expression through restraint
p; dynamics rarely exceed mezzo-forte, extremes of register are avoided,
and tempos range from adagio to moderato. Reliance on the interval of the
minor third is suggestive, perhaps, of Italian folksong, and the gently
rocking rhythms of "Io mi son giovinetta" contain hints of a
barcarola.
Canti d'Innocenza was commisioned by soprano Susan Witt, who has
recorded it on the CRS label.